Earvin 'Magic' Johnson Jr. (born August 14, 1959, in Lansing, Michigan) is a retired American professional basketball player, entrepreneur, and investor. He earned his nickname 'Magic' in high school for his exceptional skills and attended Michigan State University, where he led the Spartans to the 1979 NCAA national championship before being selected first overall in the 1979 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. Over his 13-season NBA career, all with the Lakers, he revolutionized the point guard position with his size, vision, and passing ability, leading the team to five NBA championships during the 'Showtime' era alongside teammates like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and James Worthy. Johnson was a 12-time All-Star, three-time MVP, and nine-time All-NBA First Team selection, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in basketball history.

In November 1991, at the peak of his career, Johnson announced he had contracted HIV, a revelation that shocked the sports world and led to his abrupt retirement. His openness about living with HIV transformed public perceptions of the disease, making him a prominent advocate for AIDS awareness and prevention through his Magic Johnson Foundation, founded in 1991.

Post-retirement, Johnson transitioned into a successful entrepreneur and investor, founding Magic Johnson Enterprises, which focuses on urban development, entertainment, and sports. He has ownership stakes in multiple sports teams including the Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB), Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA), and Washington Commanders (NFL), along with ventures like Magic Johnson Theaters and Starbucks franchises in underserved communities. A motivational speaker and philanthropist, Johnson has received numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2022, and remains influential in business, media, and social activism.